Over the past 11 years, United Way of the Coastal Empire, Effingham County has partnered with Neighborhood Improvement Association to offer free federal and state income tax preparations to hardworking individuals and families by simplifying the tax filing process and helping them claim important tax credits through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program.

Starting in January, residents can drop off their tax paperwork at the United Way’s Effingham County Office in Rincon and IRS-certified volunteers will complete their tax return.

Last year, tax volunteers prepared more than 550 tax returns for Effingham residents.

Kim Dennis, area director for the United Way, said that the majority of those assisted have barriers such as inequitable access to technology and language. 

“Medium to low income families often cannot afford the fees that tax preparation services charge and are looking for help,” she said. “We are excited to see this free service continue to grow in our community and look forward to what the future holds.”

Volunteering is simple. No experience is needed as volunteers will receive free training to become IRS Certified. Volunteer schedule and hours are flexible, with the program running from January through April. 

Volunteers will serve on-site at United Way’s Effingham Service Center located in Rincon as greeters or tax preparers. Training is available starting on Jan. 3. Volunteers must complete one training session, and if you cannot attend the in-person training, on-line training is available. 

For more information or to sign up, call Nathea Jones at (912) 447-5577 or email her at njones@niacdc.org.